Albion’s Fa Cup History: Manchester United

Brighton & Hove Albion travel to Old Trafford on Saturday evening to play Manchester United in the Emirates FA Cup - and for most supporters of the club, a cup clash against the Red Devils means a little bit more than most.

Albion’s 1983 adventure to Wembley Stadium was ended by the north-west club - a 4-0 defeat in the replay followed a 2-2 draw at England’s national stadium, as the Seagulls came close to lifting the trophy.

Gary Stevens forced a replay with an 87th-minute goal against United in the opening game, and although Gordon Smith broke the deadlock for the Seagulls, his missed chance in the closing stages is better remembered.

In 1993, following two meetings in the League Cup, the Seagulls were drawn against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the FA Cup, but Barry Lloyd’s team were beaten 1-0 after Ryan Giggs found the back of the net.

Albion’s first-ever game against United came back in 1909 - a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford in the FA Cup - before the sides played out another two cup fixtures, 72 years later.

Goals from Brian Horton and Andy Ritchie secured a hard-fought 2-2 draw at Old Trafford, but the visitors came out on top at the Goldstone Ground in the replay, as they won 2-0 to book their place in fourth round.

The Seagulls will get their seventh opportunity to seal an FA Cup victory over United on Saturday evening, and Chris Hughton’s team will certainly take confidence from their impressive Premier League display at Old Trafford in November.